Research shows that youth begin their smoking habits when they are younger than 18 years old.

To increase the smoking age to 21 is a step in the right direction ("Proposal to raise smoking age to 21"; Dec 30).

This will not only reduce the chance of tobacco use but the restriction of tobacco sales to youth will protect more of the next generation from tobacco-related diseases.

To further strengthen the latest measure, the authorities can legislate that tobacco products be sold in smaller packaging.

Education plays an important role in informing people about the harmfulness of tobacco use.

This can start at the primary school level.

More must also be done to stop the purchase of cigarettes online.

It is easy for young people to falsify details about their age online.

Also, perhaps the authorities could consider banning the sale of tobacco products, say, every Friday and Saturday.

Donny Ho Boon Tiong